Still writing those personal statements?
Read this Q & A from Alison R. for some tips.
Q: What on earth should I write about for my personal statement (you know, that one where they don’t give you a prompt)?
A: Yourself, of course! A personal statement is a snapshot of who you are. It doesn’t have to be the most amazing thing in the world, but it should show your readers something about you. Write about an experience, a pastime, your family, your favorite color. Pick something specific that no one else but you could write about, and write about it.
A: First, make sure you understand what it’s asking; underline key parts or break it down if you have to. Then brainstorm a little, pick out some good ideas and write. Remember to make sure that your essay appropriately addresses the prompt and doesn’t go off on tangents. Also, make sure it fits the place it’s going to: Don’t gripe about big cities in your essay for a school in NYC, or anything similarly discordant.
A: Ah, yes, those prompts that ask you to write about why you chose a college, why you should be admitted, and what you’d do there to make it a better place, in no particular combination. The key to writing these is figuring out what they want to hear, and this means research. Take ten minutes to find info on the history, mission and unique educational features of the college in question. If they have a motto or catchphrase, that’s even better. Write you essay with these things in mind, or even address them directly.
A: Definitely! This works especially well with the “Why this college?” essays, as they tend to be repetitive. If you hit upon something you really like, get it down in words and really want to reuse it, don’t be afraid to cut and paste. The only exception: Don’t let the same text appear more than once in the body of work you’re sending to one college. In other words, don’t show them that you’re recycling.
A: As much time as you need until you’re satisfied with your writing. That said, don’t be a perfectionist, and don’t just spew words for five minutes and say you’re done (as in, not edit at all). If time is not on your side, walk away from your work for five minutes and then reread it with fresh eyes. After you’re sure you’re finished, give a last once-over.
A: Yes! Give it to your English teacher at least a few weeks before your deadline for some professional criticism. Also show it to at least one other person - a friend, a family member - to proofread; a fresh set of eyes will catch the careless mistakes you won’t. Be ready to go back to editing, though.
A: Unless otherwise directed, each essay shouldn’t be longer than one page of double-spaced 12-point TNR font text with standard margins, nor less than a few lines shy of the one-page mark. Follow word count limitations if given. The paragraphs should be reasonably sized, with some variation; one-line paragraphs may work, depending on the context, but a single mammoth block of text will not. As for titles: Give each essay a reasonably creative but appropriate title, perhaps echoing the prompt, but don’t stress out over it for more than a few minutes. The most important thing is to make the final copy visually pleasing for good first impressions, even if you’re submitting it online.
Still need some help? Check out the suggestions from the admissions staff at William & Mary under “Essays Made Easy” or watch the YouTube video of their own essay prompt.
Also visit:
- arlingtonteens.com college page
- Arlington Public Library College & Career resources
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